In 1999, Diane Benedict left Dreampower Animal Rescue, which she founded in Colorado Springs (1990), to pursue her dream of a sanctuary where homeless and at risk people and animals, supported by community volunteers, would live, work, and support one another.  For over ten years, PAALS has successfully realized Diane's dream of a therapeutic environment based on acceptance, love and caring.

PAALS (People and Animals Living Synergistically) helps people and animals in need of a second chance. We are a volunteer driven, not for profit, 501(c)(3) charitable organization, licensed in the State of Colorado. All tax deductible donations go directly to the care of  PAALS residents and facilities.

The open care sanctuary at the 160 acre Dreampower Ranch is maintained by PAALS resident and community volunteers, and houses all of our animals. We do not currently have a foster program. 

Over time, the animals cared for at the sanctuary have come to include animals considered unadopted who will spend their lives on the ranch. We also have wonderful adoptable companion animals that have run out of time in rural shelters or been entrusted to our care.

Most of the loving human caretakers who live at the ranch have also lost their own homes and are now at home on the ranch or in transition.

Based on critical owner need (hardship, illness, special circumstances), PAALS for Life offers a safe and caring environment for animals as an alternative to placement in over crowded shelters. Many of these animals live out their lives at the sanctuary, comfortable and secure, or, after consultation with the owner, are placed in new homes through adoption.